Connoisseur Media is restoring live and local mornings to FREE Country 98.3 & 102.3 as the new year begins. The compny announced longtime Chicago country radio voice Drew Walker will take over the morning show in early 2026. The move marks a return to market-driven programming after the station’s run with the nationally syndicated Bobby Bones Show. The program has aired since FREE Country launched as a two-signal simulcast in May 2024.
At the same time, Walker has been promoted to Program Director, advancing from Assistant Program Director effective immediately.
He will oversee the brand’s direction while becoming the daily voice that greets country fans across the suburbs.
In a statement, Walker said the opportunity carries both personal and professional significance.
“Moving into mornings and the Program Director seat feels a little surreal,” Walker said. “This station has been my passion project from day one. I’m grateful for the chance to help lead its next chapter. We’ve built something really special here. A team I love, communities I care about, fantastic partners, a creative environment that’s actually fun, and a station that truly sounds and feels like home. Super thanks to Gordon Mays, Karl Wertzler, Brian Foster, Keith Dakin and Jeff Warshaw for this amazing opportunity!”
Additionally, Connoisseur Media announced that Leah Andersen will step into afternoon drive, filling the slot previously held by Walker. Andersen has served as the morning co-host on sister station 95 WIIL Rock while also handling weekend duties on FREE Country. She said the move is “a perfect fit” for her life and for the audience the station serves.
“As a lifelong country fan, a mom of three, and a wife juggling the same day-to-day as our listeners, I’m thrilled for this new role,” Andersen said. “Connecting with this community is one of my favorite parts of the job. I can’t wait to bring that to afternoons.”
Connoisseur Chicagoland Operations Manager Gordon Mays called the changes an important step in strengthening the brand’s identity. After a period dominated by a nationally syndicated morning product, he said a renewed focus on localism is a strategic advantage.
“Drew’s experience and decades-long connection with the Chicagoland country music audience make this a very exciting time to be in FREE Country,” Mays said. “We have a unique opportunity to continue evolving with authentic local voices, and that’s a big win for our listeners and every community we’re connected with.”
The new lineup will debut during the first week of 2026.
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